Deadline has learned that Netflix has had conversations with The River producer ABC Studios about the possibility of continuing the thriller/horror series on their streaming platform. Sources stress that the talks are exploratory at this point in the context of a larger conversation between ABC Studios and Netflix.

As we know, Netflix are targeting heavily-serialized shows as they perform well on time-shifted/streaming platforms like their own. Though The River is perhaps more serial-lite, it is seriable and its Live+7 ratings rise 36% vs. Live+Same Day figures. (lower than Terra Nova‘s 44%, but not to be sniffed at).

Since the series is produced by ABC’s own production arm, the network probably block a deal that would make money for its sister studio.

Whether it’s The River, Terra Nova, or another seriable drama, it’s going to be very interesting when Netflix picks up one of these shows.*

Part of me wonders whether they might keep their powder dry should FOX cancel Fringe this year — a show that is still, for the most part, critically-acclaimed, has even ‘stronger’ DVR numbers, and a heavily-serialized story.

At any rate, it does Netflix no harm exploring the possibilities, even if nothing comes of these first few intrepid feelers. In fact, it makes sense from their standpoint.

While staying on broadcast network is a priority for many seriable shows (a post for another day, perhaps), it’s also encouraging at this point to think that there could be life after broadcast for one or two of them this year.

I imagine the implications of a Netflix serial will have a significant bearing on the ‘TV’ landscape. Interesting times to be a fan of serial. Though when isn’t it?